Taking Pre-Med Classes in High School

I want to get a head start on my pre-med journey while I'm still in high school. What pre-med courses should I take, if any? Are there any specific classes or extracurriculars I should focus on?

While there aren't specific pre-med courses in high school, you can take classes and participate in extracurriculars that will give you a strong foundation for your pre-med journey. Here are some suggestions:

1. Classes: Focus on science, math, and to some extent, humanities courses. It's important to take a variety of rigorous courses such as honors or Advanced Placement (AP) classes.

- Biology: Essential for understanding living organisms.

- Chemistry: Foundation for understanding chemical processes in the body.

- Physics: Will help you understand biomechanics and other principles in medicine.

- Math: Calculus and statistics will be useful for scientific research and data analysis.

- Humanities: Courses like English, history, and social sciences help develop critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills, which are important for pre-med students.

2. Extracurriculars: Join clubs or activities related to your interests in medicine or science. Here are some ideas:

- Science clubs or organizations: Providing opportunities to explore your interest in science and gain exposure to research projects.

- Volunteering: Volunteer at local hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes to get hands-on experience working with patients and providing care.

- Research opportunities: Conduct independent research or join a research team– many high schools and universities offer research opportunities for high school students.

- Job shadowing: Spend a day or half-day shadowing a medical professional in various specialties to gain insight into the day-to-day life of a physician.

3. Test preparation: While not a requirement, taking and scoring well on the SAT Subject Tests in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics can demonstrate your strong knowledge in those areas.

4. Leadership and teamwork: Develop your leadership skills by participating in student government or holding leadership positions in clubs. Teamwork is also a crucial skill for medical professionals, so join group activities, such as a team sport or academic competition, to hone your collaboration skills.

Remember, don't overload yourself with too many activities and classes. Select a few that you are passionate about and focus on excelling in those areas. It's essential to achieve a balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal development. Best of luck in your pre-med journey!